Reflection

As we’ve been reflecting on why our response to Jesus matters, today we dip

into the second volume of Luke’s writing (i.e., Acts) and, in particular, a

poignant part of Peters’ famous speech.

In this part of Peter’s speech, he provides a clear way of how we can

respond to the Good News that he has shared. What was that Good News? That

Jesus died for us because we are utterly incapable of saving ourselves. For

many, the news that Jesus was the Messiah was still probably difficult news

to fathom. For others, it would have been difficult to reconcile their

expectations of what the Messiah would do, with the reality of his death on

a Roman cross. Yet Peter is clear, that this was actually all part of God’s

plan for the Messiah. Even if they were ignorant of it, it was the very

fulfilment of God’s saving plan with the prophets having even foretold it.

But whilst they may have failed to recognise who Jesus is in the past, that

should not dictate their response to him now! In light of what they have

learned, they now have the opportunity to turn to God. The amazing news is

that when they do that, when they repent and put their trust in God through

Jesus, their ‘sins may be wiped out’. How amazing is that! That their sins

and our sins can be wiped out simply by turning to Jesus, saying sorry, and

making him the Lord of their lives! To reject Jesus is to cut ourselves off

from God, but to accept him means forgiveness and life forever with him!

It’s easy to think that our sins are unforgivable, but the Good News of

Jesus is clear: that because he died for us, all of our sins can be wiped

out simply by putting our trust in him. AL

Questions

What does it mean for you to know that your sins can be ‘wiped out’ as we

repent and put our trust in Jesus?

How is your life different because of the security you grasp because of

Jesus’ death and resurrection?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank you that Jesus’ death and resurrection change

everything! Please help us to turn to you, to trust in you, and to receive

your gift of salvation. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.